New Bewdley Express commuter trial set to launch on Severn Valley Railway
The eight-week trial will see commuters able to travel on the heritage line between Bewdley and Kidderminster.
A unique commuter rail trial that will connect Bewdley with the main line railway network at Kidderminster is ready to launch.
The eight-week Bewdley Express trial begins on Tuesday, with heritage trains operated by the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) carrying passengers between Bewdley and Kidderminster, where they can connect with West Midlands Railway services to and from Birmingham, Worcester and beyond.
The trial is a partnership between the SVR, West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) and West Midlands Railway, and will test demand for a regular rail connection between Bewdley and the wider West Midlands network.
Weekday commuter services will run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during the trial, with morning departures from Bewdley at 6.40am and 7.40am.
Evening return services will leave Birmingham Snow Hill at 4.46pm and 5.46pm, with passengers changing at Kidderminster for the SVR service to Bewdley.
Example fares include £16 return between Bewdley and Birmingham, while a return between Bewdley and Kidderminster costs £3.60, with a single ticket priced at £2.
SVR said the trial is intended to assess passenger demand and demonstrate the potential benefits of a more direct rail connection for Bewdley and surrounding communities.
It also said that better rail connectivity could provide an alternative to car travel for commuters while also improving access to employment, education and leisure opportunities and supporting tourism and the local economy.
Gus Dunster, chief executive officer of SVR, said: “After months of planning and preparation, it is fantastic to see the Bewdley Express trial almost ready to begin.
“This is a genuinely exciting experiment in how heritage railway infrastructure and expertise can work alongside the modern rail network to improve connectivity.
“For the first time in many years, people will be able to use Bewdley as part of their everyday rail journey, travelling on a heritage railway before connecting with the main line at Kidderminster.
“We hope commuters, residents and leisure travellers will get behind the trial and give the service a try.”
Tickets will be available to purchase from West Midlands Railway staff at Bewdley ahead of the morning departures on the day of travel.
Tickets can also be purchased from West Midlands Railway ticket offices, including Kidderminster and Birmingham Snow Hill.
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